Safari 3HD Action Camera 1080p w Bonus Battery Review

The Safari 3HD Action Camera 1080p delivers crisp, high-definition footage in a rugged, compact design, perfect for adrenaline-fueled adventures. With a bonus battery included, you get extended recording time right out of the box—ideal for capturing every moment without interruption. Its intuitive controls, wide-angle lens, and reliable performance make it a standout budget-friendly option for action enthusiasts.

Key Takeaways

• High-quality 1080p video: Capture sharp, vibrant footage in full HD resolution.
• Bonus battery included: Double your recording time with the extra battery pack.
• Durable waterproof design: Use confidently underwater up to 30 meters deep.
• Easy one-button control: Start recording instantly with minimal setup required.
• Wide-angle lens: Fit more action into every shot effortlessly.
• Lightweight and portable: Carry anywhere without adding bulk to your gear.
• Great value package: Premium features at an affordable price with bonus accessories.

First Impressions: Unboxing the Safari 3HD Action Camera 1080p w Bonus Battery

Let’s be real—finding an affordable action camera that doesn’t feel like a gamble is tough. When I first saw the Safari 3HD Action Camera 1080p w Bonus Battery online, I was skeptical. It promised 1080p video, a rugged build, and a free extra battery—all for under $70. That’s the kind of deal that makes you wonder, “What’s the catch?” But after using it for a month across hikes, bike rides, and even a rainy kayaking trip, I’m ready to share the honest truth. Spoiler: it’s not perfect, but for the price, it punches way above its weight.

This camera arrived in a no-frills box with everything you’d expect: the camera, a waterproof case (rated to 30 meters), a charging cable, mounts, and—yes—that bonus battery that’s a game-changer for long adventures. The first thing I noticed? It’s tiny. Smaller than a matchbox, and light enough to forget it’s clipped to your backpack. I’ve tested GoPros, DJI cams, and even pricier models, and while the Safari 3HD isn’t in their league, it’s not trying to be. It’s a budget-friendly tool for capturing real-life moments, not Hollywood-grade footage. If you’re a weekend warrior, travel vlogger, or parent documenting kids’ sports, this might just be your sweet spot.

Design and Build Quality: Rugged Enough for Real Adventures?

Size, Weight, and Portability

At 58g (camera only), the Safari 3HD is featherlight. I’ve clipped it to a helmet, bike handlebars, and even a dog harness (for a “pup’s-eye view” of the park). The compact size makes it ideal for travel—it fits in a jeans pocket. But don’t let its small stature fool you: the plastic body feels surprisingly sturdy. I accidentally dropped it onto concrete from waist height (oops), and it survived with a tiny scuff. The waterproof case adds bulk, but it’s essential for submersion. The case seals with a simple twist lock, which I tested by submerging it in a sink for 10 minutes—no leaks. Just remember: the case is waterproof, but the camera itself isn’t. Always use it for underwater shots!

Mounts and Accessories: What’s Included?

The package includes a basic set of mounts: a helmet adhesive mount, a handlebar clamp, a pivot arm, and a tripod adapter. They’re not the most robust I’ve used (the plastic feels a bit flimsy), but they work. The helmet mount stayed put during a 15-mile mountain bike ride with plenty of bumps. Pro tip: if you’re using the adhesive mounts long-term, clean the surface with alcohol first—I learned this the hard way when my camera detached mid-hike. The tripod adapter is a nice touch for stationary shots, like time-lapses. One gripe? The included mounts don’t rotate 360°, so adjusting angles can be fiddly.

Battery Life: Where the Bonus Battery Shines

The included 900mAh battery lasts about 90 minutes in 1080p at 30fps. That’s decent, but not great. Here’s where the bonus battery saves the day. Swapping batteries takes 10 seconds—no tools needed. On a weekend camping trip, I used the main battery for morning hikes and the bonus for sunset shots. Total recording time: 3 hours. The camera charges via USB-C (finally!), and a full charge takes ~2 hours. A word of caution: the battery compartment is snug. I had to wiggle the battery in at first, but it’s secure once seated.

Video and Photo Quality: Does It Deliver on 1080p?

Resolution, Frame Rates, and Real-World Performance

The Safari 3HD records 1080p at 30fps or 60fps, 720p at 30/60fps, and 480p at 30fps. Photos are 12MP. Let’s talk about the 1080p footage first: it’s sharp enough for social media, but don’t expect GoPro-like clarity. In daylight, colors pop, and details like tree bark or trail signs are clear. But in low light? Expect grainy, noisy footage. I tested it at dusk on a forest trail—shadows swallowed details, and the camera struggled with dynamic range. For comparison, my DJI Osmo Action 3 handles low light better, but it’s 3x the price.

Here’s a real-world example: I recorded a 10-minute downhill bike ride at 1080p/60fps. The video was smooth, with minimal shake (thanks to basic EIS), but the sky was blown out in sunny patches. The camera’s auto-exposure works well 90% of the time, but it occasionally overcompensates in mixed lighting. Tip: If you’re filming near water or snow, manually lower the exposure in the settings to avoid overexposure.

Stabilization: Good Enough for Bumpy Trails?

The Safari 3HD uses electronic image stabilization (EIS), not optical. In 1080p/60fps mode, it’s decent—my mountain biking footage had only minor jitters. But in 30fps, stabilization is weaker. For smooth footage, pair the camera with a chest or helmet mount (which absorb vibrations better than handlebar mounts). The EIS also crops the frame slightly, so you lose some peripheral view. It’s a fair trade-off for the price, but if you’re filming fast action (think motocross), invest in a gimbal.

Photo Capabilities: Snapshots, Not Masterpieces

The 12MP photos are… fine. In bright light, they’re crisp and vibrant. I took a shot of a waterfall at noon—the water’s movement was captured nicely. But in shade or indoors, photos get noisy. The camera has no manual focus, so close-ups (like flowers) are blurry. For quick snapshots, it works. For art? Not so much. Pro tip: Use burst mode (3 shots/second) to increase your chances of a sharp photo.

User Experience: Is the Safari 3HD Easy to Use?

Menu System and Controls

The Safari 3HD has a single button on top (power/record) and a small 2-inch LCD screen. The screen is dim—I struggled to see it in direct sunlight. The menu system is simple: press the button to cycle through modes (video, photo, burst, time-lapse), then hold to select. But the interface feels outdated. For example, changing frame rates requires diving into submenus. I accidentally switched from 60fps to 30fps mid-ride once because the button is sensitive. After a week, I got the hang of it, but it’s not intuitive for first-time users.

Audio Quality: The Weakest Link

The built-in mic is… there. It picks up wind noise like a champ (even with the waterproof case on). During my bike ride, the wind roar drowned out my voice. For vlogging, use an external mic (the camera has a 3.5mm jack). If you’re filming in quiet environments, the mic is passable—I recorded a campfire chat, and the audio was clear, if a bit tinny.

App and Connectivity: Wi-Fi, But No Bluetooth

The Safari 3HD connects to your phone via Wi-Fi (no Bluetooth). The free “SafariCam” app (iOS/Android) lets you preview shots, adjust settings, and download files. It works… when it wants to. I spent 10 minutes troubleshooting a Wi-Fi disconnect before my hike. Once connected, the live preview lags by ~2 seconds—annoying for framing shots. File transfers are slow (a 5-minute video took 8 minutes to download). For quick sharing, I just popped out the microSD card and used my laptop. Pro tip: Use a Class 10 microSD card (64GB max) for best performance.

Who Is the Safari 3HD For? (And Who Should Look Elsewhere)

The Ideal User: Budget-Conscious Adventurers

This camera is perfect for:

• Casual travelers who want to document trips without breaking the bank.
• Beginners testing the waters of action videography.
• Parents filming kids’ sports or school events.
• Budget YouTubers needing B-roll or POV shots.

I used it to film my niece’s soccer game—the 1080p footage was clear, and the bonus battery lasted the whole match. For $65, it’s a steal compared to $300+ alternatives.

Who Should Skip It? Pros and Perfectionists

Look elsewhere if you need:

• 4K video (this maxes at 1080p).
• Advanced stabilization for high-speed action.
• Low-light performance (e.g., night skiing, cave exploration).
• Pro audio (the built-in mic is mediocre).

For example, a friend used the Safari 3HD to film a night mountain bike ride. The footage was so dark, you couldn’t see the trail. A pricier camera with a better sensor (like the DJI Action 4) would’ve handled it better.

Value for Money: Is the Safari 3HD Worth It?

Pricing and Competition

The Safari 3HD Action Camera 1080p w Bonus Battery typically costs $60–$70. For comparison:

Camera	Price	Resolution	Battery	Bonus Features
Safari 3HD	$65	1080p/60fps	900mAh (x2)	Waterproof case, basic EIS
GoPro Hero 9 Black	$350	5K/30fps	1720mAh	Hypersmooth, 3 mics, front screen
DJI Osmo Action 3	$330	4K/120fps	1770mAh	RockSteady, dual screens, 160-min battery
Akaso V50X	$80	4K/30fps	1350mAh	EIS, touchscreen, 2 batteries

The Safari 3HD isn’t the cheapest (the Akaso Brave 4 is $50), but the bonus battery and included waterproof case add real value. The Akaso V50X offers 4K and a touchscreen, but its battery life is shorter (70 mins vs. 90 mins), and it lacks the Safari’s rugged feel.

Long-Term Reliability: A Word of Caution

After 30 days of use, the camera works as well as day one. But I’ve read mixed reviews about longevity. Some users report battery swelling after 6 months. Others praise its 2-year durability. My advice? Treat it like a budget tool—not a forever investment. Store it in a dry place, avoid extreme heat/cold, and don’t submerge it deeper than 30 meters. If it lasts a year, you’ve gotten your money’s worth.

Final Verdict: A Solid Budget Option with One Big Perk

The Safari 3HD Action Camera 1080p w Bonus Battery won’t replace your DSLR or GoPro. But for the price, it’s surprisingly capable. The 1080p video is sharp in good light, the rugged build survives drops and splashes, and that bonus battery is a lifesaver for long days. Sure, the menu is clunky, the mic is weak, and low-light performance is iffy. But if you’re not chasing perfection and just want to capture memories without emptying your wallet, this camera delivers.

I’ll keep using mine for weekend hikes, family events, and travel vlogs. It’s not the fanciest tool in my gear bag, but it’s the one I reach for when I don’t want to stress about breaking something expensive. Think of it as the “gateway” action camera—a way to test if you even like filming POV adventures before investing in pricier gear. And if you’re already sold on action cams, the Safari 3HD is a great backup or secondary camera for unique angles (like the dog harness shot I mentioned earlier).

Bottom line: If you prioritize value over perfection, the Safari 3HD is a smart buy. Just don’t expect miracles. Use it in daylight, keep the settings simple, and always pack that bonus battery. For $65, you’re getting a reliable, no-frills way to turn your adventures into shareable stories. And honestly? That’s all most of us really need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Safari 3HD Action Camera 1080p stand out from other budget action cameras?

The Safari 3HD Action Camera 1080p combines 1080p Full HD video, a wide 140° lens, and a bonus battery for extended recording—all at an affordable price. Its durable, waterproof housing (up to 30m) makes it ideal for outdoor adventures without extra casing.

Does the Safari 3HD Action Camera come with a second battery, and how long does it last?

Yes, this model includes a bonus battery, giving you double the recording time (up to 90 minutes per battery). This is perfect for long shoots or travel where charging isn’t immediately available.

Is the Safari 3HD compatible with GoPro mounts and accessories?

Absolutely. The Safari 3HD Action Camera uses a standard mounting system, making it compatible with most GoPro-style mounts, tripods, and cases. You can easily integrate it into your existing gear setup.

How good is the video quality in low-light conditions with the Safari 3HD?

The 1080p resolution delivers clear daylight footage, but like most budget action cameras, low-light performance is average with some noise. For best results, use it in well-lit environments or attach an external light source.

Can I use the Safari 3HD as a dash cam or for vlogging?

Yes, the Safari 3HD Action Camera 1080p supports loop recording and time-lapse modes, making it suitable for dash cam use or creative vlogging. The built-in microphone captures decent audio, though wind noise can be an issue at high speeds.

What’s included in the Safari 3HD Action Camera 1080p w Bonus Battery package?

The package includes the camera, waterproof case, two rechargeable batteries, a USB cable, multiple mounts, and a user manual. The bonus battery and versatile mounts add significant value for the price.